John Scott, Lord Eldon, 1751–1838
The Duty of Loyalty

This is the first modern biography of an important Lord Chancellor in Georgian political life.

Rose Melikan (Author)

9780521623957, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 22 July 1999

388 pages
22.5 x 14.5 x 3 cm, 0.635 kg

'Melikan is to be commended for composing so thoughtful and revealing a study of early nineteenth century conservative thought.' Parliamentary History

John Scott, Lord Eldon (1751–1838) was a dominant figure in Georgian public life, and ranks among the most important Lord Chancellors in the long history of that office. This biography - the first for one hundred and fifty years - also surveys Eldon's earlier career as an MP and Law Officer. As a lawyer entering Parliament, he encountered both prejudices against 'learned gentlemen' and opportunities for advancement. Once in office he swiftly made his presence felt, drafting the Regency bill of 1788, and conducting the government's legal campaign against Republicanism. Retiring at last in 1827, Eldon spent his final years opposing political reform. Labelled by many as a relic of 'Old Toryism', Eldon's views of government, politics, and the constitution represent an important strand in Georgian political thinking, and his career illuminates the work of the major legal offices of British government.

Preface
1. A man of laws
2. An independent learned gentleman
3. A government retainer
4. Formal politics
5. Engagement
6. Setbacks
7. Resolution
8. Pater familias
9. Upright intentions
10. The king's man
11. The practice of patronage
12. Cut and thrust
13. A servant may serve two masters
14. Reform and revolution
15. The speaker speaks
16. Lord endless
17. Faithful defender
18. Twilight of the state
Bibliography: I. Manuscripts
II. Legal and parliamentary documents
III. Pamphlets
IV. Newspapers and periodicals
V. Biographies, memoirs, correspondence, diaries
VI. Secondary sources.

Subject Areas: Biography: historical, political & military [BGH]